20 things I love about Chicago

I fell in love with Chicago on day #1 and I said that a bunch of times already so I figured I should explain WHY this city stole my heart and took my breath away. I admire Chicago, aka the Windy City, for its variety, its people and its flair. But let’s look closer into that. Here are 20 things I adore about this fascinating metropolis and I believe that one or the other of you will agree on those reasons.

FREE activities

All low-budget backpacker will agree with me that free activities are the best thing ever. Chicago has a lot of them..like A LOT! Check out my list with my favs ❤️

The architecture

The Great Chicago Fire in 1871 destroyed almost the entire city and architects from all over the country had to develop a whole new design. That’s why the majority of buildings is super modern and classy.
However the Chicago Water Works is one of the few beautiful old buildings from the time before the fire.

Cultural mosaic

No matter where you’re from, what you look like or what you believe in, there’s a community in Chicago to hang out with people just like you.

The beach

Not only it is an exciting and fascinating big city you’re getting yourself into, BUT ALSO it’s right by Lake Michigan and has a beautiful beach to play volleyball, relax, dance to the DJ’s vibes and swim (only if you are brave – it’s pretty cold).

People being very helpful

When I lived here I found the people extremely helpful. Every time I got lost, someone would walk with me until I knew where to go again. Isn’t that nice?! I don’t know, maybe it’s just me, but I think Americans are just very easy to get along with 🙂

Chicago Botanic Gardens

A must-see when in chicago and loving flowers and nature! It’s 25 miles north of the Loop and admission is FREE.

The Bulls

Let’s face it, they are a great Basketball team, the atmosphere at United Center is always sweeping you away and the players are pretty hot!

Graffitis

I love that kind of art and Chicago has a bunch of great pieces of them. Obviously my favorite is the Chicago lettering in Logan Square.

Shopping

If you’re rich got to exquisite stores like Burberry, Michael Kors and Prada on Michigan Avenue or what they call it: The Magnificant Mile. If you’re looking for some great bargains go to one of the many outlet malls outside the city center i.e. the Chicago Fashion Outlets right by O’Hare Intl. Airport or a bit further to the Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora.

The WINTER

Yes, I’m serious. It might be freezing cold in Chicago for a long period of time each year but it’s also magical. Explore the Chicago Zoo lights, go ice skating at Millenium Park, see huge pieces of ice at Lake Michigan and enjoy the WinterWonderland at Navy Pier.
PS: Dress warm though!

Deep Dish Pizza

Try this specialty at Chicago’s noted pizza place Giordano’s ?

There is always something going on

Numerous festivals and parades, color runs, fireworks and my absolute highlight biking along Lake Shore Drive when they close it up once a year. You’ll never be bored in Chicago.

The world-class museums

So many top award-winning museums in this city. Adler Planetarium, Field Museum and Art Institute are my favorites and shouldn’t be left out on a first visit.

Different neighborhoods

You’re looking for great Italien food, go to the Italien neighborhood. You want to be transported to Greece, go to the Greek neighborhood. Drink beer in the German quarter of find crazy accessories in Chinatown. For vintage and second-hand clothes your best pick is Wicker Park. Really, there is so much variety in each corner of this city.

The Chicago River

Not only is it super nice and enjoyable to walk along the River on its’ path but also the water is quite the attraction for two reasns:
It flows backwards AND the River is dyed green every year for St. Patrick’s Day.

Navy Pier

Ride the chairoplane or go big on the ferris wheel – This plays lets you fully act out the kid in you!

Entertainment variety

Go to a jazz bar, an improv comedy show, a Gospel Brunch at House of Blues or to a play at Chicago Theatre. And believe me your money is well spent.

Street artists

Yes, the graffitis are great but other than on a picture you cannot take them home. There are some really cool artists on the streets of Chicago that will make you a painting of a lifetime.

The Bean

Great spot for people watching and taking pictures. The sculpture will reflect both, the skyline and yourself.

THE CHICAGO SKYLINE

Hands down the most spectecular and beautiful skyline I have seen so far. No matter how often you come visit, it never fails to take your breath away. I could literally sit outside Adler Planetarium and glimpse at the buildings for hours and hours 🙂